Brazil names Menezes new coach

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Jul 24, 2010

, Last Updated: 4:19 PM ET

Sao Paulo, Brazil - Brazil named Mano Menezes the new coach of its national team Saturday, and signed him to a contract through the 2014 FIFA World Cup in Brazil.

Muricy Ramalho was the first choice to replace Dunga, who stepped down after Brazil was eliminated in the quarterfinals of the 2010 World Cup, but he turned down the job to stay with Brazilian club Fluminense.

Menezes coached Brazilian club Corinthians from 2008-10. He was released from his contract with the club to become Brazil's new manager. Menezes previously coached Brazilian club Gremio.

"I have always dreamed of one day becoming the national team's coach, and that day came sooner than I expected," Menezes told a news conference.

Menezes led Gremio to promotion to Brazil's top division in 2005. He also led the team to second place in the Copa Libertadores, which is South America's top club event, during his tenure. Menezes also returned Corinthians to the top flight and claimed the Brazilian Cup last season with the club.

Brazil will play its first match under Menezes on Aug. 10 against the United States.